SAPS Champion: Bodybuilder Sergeant Hansie Mokgoshi's Quest for Excellence

Amidst the sounds of sirens and the daily hustle within the South African Police Service (SAPS), there is one officer whose dedication to excellence extends far beyond his call of duty. Sergeant Hansie Mokgoshi, a stalwart member of the SAPS Tshwane Academy, has recently been spotlighted not just for his service to the community but also for his extraordinary achievements in physical fitness and bodybuilding.

The Sergeant's recent win at the 2023 International Federation of Body Building and Fitness (IBFF) World Championship in Koper, Slovenia, has placed him at the pinnacle of global recognition in the sport. However, his journey has been marked with equal parts triumph and challenge. After clinching the Mr. Universe title in Italy and earning his pro-card, Mokgoshi endured an operation for a shoulder injury in 2018, putting his competition days at a temporary halt.

Undeterred by this setback, Mokgoshi made a notable return to the competitive arena in 2021 at the IBFF All Africa Cup, where he secured second place. His relentless commitment to his craft saw him improving his physique, focusing on weak points that culminated in his ultimate victory at the IBFF World Championships, where he claimed the PRO overall lineup.

His recent accolades have not gone unnoticed. The SAPS celebrated Mokgoshi at their 9th National Excellence Awards under the theme: "Encouraging Innovation and Rewarding Excellence," recognizing his hard work and commitment to fitness. His holistic approach to well-being is not only for himself; it is a message he shares widely. “The career we choose needs fit and mentally healthy people,” he said, emphasizing the importance of physical activity in coping with the demands of the police force.

Drawing inspiration from his father, a bodybuilder and boxer in the 60s and 70s, Mokgoshi began his journey in martial arts with Kyokoshin karate before his love for bodybuilding led him to compete internationally. His first World Championship appearance in 2010 saw him place fourth in France, and since then, his trajectory has been a testament to his work ethic and passion for the sport.

Perhaps more impressive is Mokgoshi's vision for the future of bodybuilding in South Africa. Seeing the transformative power of the sport, he is keen on introducing more young people to bodybuilding, aiming to instill discipline, promote a healthy lifestyle, and steer the youth away from drugs and gangsterism.

Sergeant Mokgoshi's aspirations do not end with his recent victories or recognitions. He is already crafting a new path towards his next goal: competing in the renowned Mr. Olympia. This ambition is driven by his belief in constant self-improvement and his mantra of staying focused on his path.

Through his accomplishments and service, Sergeant Hansie Mokgoshi stands as a beacon of excellence and resilience, showing that dedication in one's craft pays off and that serving the community is multifaceted. As he prepares for the challenges ahead, South Africa watches with pride, ready to cheer on one of its finest as he aims for new heights in the world of bodybuilding.